I could totally get away with one of those...I rarely ride any kind of real mileage. Wouldn't want one though...you can't even drive them for an hour on the highway without the extra battery (which only buys you like 15 minutes). So it's not like getting a tesla where your rare short road trip might just be kind of awkward when you have to stop and eat lunch to charge (instead of just gassing up)...

Would also rob much of the fun when you don't have gears or a clutch. And that *giant* rear sprocket looks super goofy.

Also, motorcycles are a terrible platform for regenerative braking which kills the range. You have friction only braking on the front...which is also where 80% of the braking effort is (and could easily be 100%)....so all of the regen that makes hybrid and electric cars work is nonexistent.

Between that site and RideApart's constant disdain for them, I almost feel guilty for owning a Bonneville.

As if it's not a 'real' bike.

Bah, the Bonneville is the most iconic motorcycle there is. That's why they attract so many old dudes! You know the story.

Old dude stands up straight and walks up to you after eyeing your bike for some time."What year is that?" "That one of the Hinckley Bonnevilles?" "Back in seventy-six, I had me one of those. They look just as good now!"

Meanwhile the hottie you were eyeing hops on the back of some squid's R1...

But frankly, I think you're exaggerating the shame due to you for riding a Bonnie. I mean certainly riding a motorcycle that was designed specifically to be a throwback - ignoring most advances in modern safety, aerodynamics and ergonomics - will peg you as someone who values form at least some modicum over function. And then modifying something that starts off at said disadvantage to feature an even less friendly riding position that the bike wasn't built for - as well as unduly expensive aftermarket accessories - MIGHT get someone branded as a "hipster." But shit, those people are just jealous that they have to ride Japanese and can't afford premium leather upholstering on their seats. I mean, don't you wan't to ride something unique? Japanese bikes are a dime a dozen...